My husband left for a week long work trip so my nightly gym excursions are on hold until he returns. I’m bummed because last week I totaled 25 miles, the most I’ve done post partum. Because I’m on such a roll, I know I have to continue working out in someway. It got me thinking, “What can I do at home that will give me a good workout?” I know I could simply do a google or youtube search but what was funny was that as I begin thinking of workouts to do I realized, heck I do quite a bit already.

Calf Raises: I cover this each time my daughter, Lauren, points to the crackers at the top of our pantry. I put them there in hopes she doesn’t see them but she does. Always. So I stand on my tiptoes and grab ‘em oh about 3-4 times a day.

Squats: I have my daughter to thank for this one again. She’s learned “up” and says it frequently so I can hold her. Always mindful to not simply bend down and get her, I squat down to pick her up always keeping perfect form.

Biceps: Holding my daughter for extended periods of time means I’m working these arm muscles consistently throughout the day.

Lunges: Lauren is quite the mover and her favorite thing is to climb on the couch and run across it. Of course I think she’s going to fall and this results in me lunging after her to break the descent.

Hips: Lauren’s T.V. time consists of Sesame Street and Mickey Mouse Club House and her favorite parts are when the shows start and end because of the theme song. As soon as she hears the opening song to Sesame Street or MMCH she runs towards me and begs to be picked up so we can dance. I’m a little more partial to MMCH and the hot dog dance at the end. Have you tried the dance to that song? It’s hard! (please youtube the dance)

Speed Work: Both of my kids help me out with this one. I get really tested with my speed when my son is hungry. He needs to be changed and fed immediately or he will lose it. Not only must I appease his hunger quickly, Lauren does not allow for much mother-son time. She is there to make sure I’m expediting the feeding process.

Endurance: I’ve mentioned in a previous post that my days are long. I have to make sure I pace myself and not burn out too quickly or things can go downhill fast. Doing too many exciting activities in the morning will only mean the afternoons will feel like an eternity.

Core: Finally, core muscles. Even though I might be tired after all of these exercises, my children can always find ways throughout the day to make their momma laugh. This workout is my favorite.